The Governor issued an Executive Order creating the commission along with naming the 11 members that would oversee the process. The commission consists of judges, government officials, and former officeholders. Supporters of the bipartisan commission hope that the new panel will put pressure on the General Assembly to put aside political motivations when considering any redistricting plan. [1]

Lieutenant GovernorBill Bolling, Attorney GeneralKen Cuccinelli, and former Governor L. Douglas Wilder support the concept of a bipartisan commission. In a written statement, Governor McDonnell said: "as Virginia redraws its legislative districts later this year, the process should take place in a manner that is fair and open...This Bipartisan Redistricting Commission will contribute to public involvement, openness, and fairness in the redistricting process." [2]

However, the reaction was mixed from members of the split-controlled General Assembly. RepublicanHouse SpeakerWilliam J. Howell applauded the idea by saying: "we expect the independent commission will increase participation in the electoral process." [1] However, DemocraticState SenatorDonald McEachin thought the commission came "too little, too late." McEachin further argued that the commission would have "no impact on the legislative process whatever." [1]

The commission will serve purely as an advisory group to the General Assembly. Maps and plans will be drawn up and submitted to the General Assembly, who then will use those products when drafting a redistricting bill to send to the governor for approval.